Organizers can jumpstart the fun at the next family reunion by presenting each family member with a packed gift bag. Filled with keepsakes, practical items and fun stuff, the bags can serve both as a welcoming gift and a favor to take home. A variety of items can be included in the bags, depending on the location of the reunion and the activities planned. In addition to the ideas given below, another option is to ask each family to bring one item to put in everyone else's gift bag before they're distributed.
Personalized Totes
Start with a generously sized bag to load up with surprises. Instead of a paper gift bag, consider ordering personalized canvas tote bags; they are not only much sturdier but will also serve as a reunion souvenir. Many places that sell personalized hats and caps also offer personalized tote bags. At personalcreations.com, for example, you can order a "family of characters" tote bag which features cartoon characters printed with various choices of hair color and ethnicity; you can choose up to six characters with individual names.
Shirts and/or caps
Buy each family member a mini-photo album, which later will be used to hold reunion photos. However, use it first to house family reunion information. Type up the information so that it can be printed out in 4" by 6" sections that give schedule information, directions, and other reunion details. Insert each section into a plastic sleeve of the photo album. Tuck photo albums into the gift bag.
Fun Stuff
Stuff some tasty treats into the bag; choose items of particular significance. For example, a sandwich bag with a couple of Aunt Mary's famous brownies or some trail mix for the hiking expedition you'll be taking. Get kids---and fun-loving adults---interacting immediately by including bottles of bubbles, yo-yos, or Frisbees. Type up a sheet of family trivia questions; fold it up inside an envelope along with a couple of personalized family reunion pencils.
Local Coupons
For a long weekend reunion, where family members will have the opportunity to explore the reunion area, provide gift cards or coupons for local attractions such as the zoo or a museum. Ask the area tourist office or chamber of commerce for some informational handouts and a map and include those in the gift bag as well.
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